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Amazing Costa Navarino
Category - Europe
Crystal blue waters, pristine white beaches and historical importance are just the tip of the sand dune at the stunning Costa Navarino in the Greek region of Messinia, opening this May. With so much to see, do and learn, Costa Navarino’s Westin Resort is the destination in the Mediterranean that smart families will be flocking to this summer.
Location
Tucked away in unspoilt Messinia in the southwest Peloponnese is Navarino Dunes, the first site of Costa Navarino, covering 1,000 hectares of natural beauty overlooking a magnificent sandy beach. Navarino Dunes is the setting of The Westin Resort, the ultimate family destination, inspired by old traditional Messinian houses! In Navarino Dunes you will be offered a fascinating choice of dining venues, plus a wide range of leisure facilities and limitless opportunities for indoor and outdoor pursuits. “Agora”, the authentic village centre features entertainment and exclusive shopping venues, including an open air cinema, a traditional Greek amphitheatre, along with a variety of cafes and restaurants.
Become a Local
At Costa Navarino, it’s not just about meeting the locals, but joining them. Messinian people are famous for their warm and friendly nature and at Costa Navarino they want you to get involved. Test out your sea legs by taking a trip on a traditional Greek caïque and try to catch your own dinner. Or have a go at traditional arts and crafts, guided by local craftsmen. The area is famous for Kalamata olive oil, one of the best extra virgin olive oils in the Mediterranean so make sure you try some during your visit.
Being Green
Costa Navarino, in co-operation with the Greek branch of Bird life International (RSPB in the UK) are actively protecting the unique eco systems of the area and their distinct guests like the African chameleon and the famous sea turtle carreta carreta (also known as the loggerhead). In the Navarino Natura Hall, in a fun interactive way, you will learn about the local nature. Each of the hotels at Costa Navarino is built with sustainability in mind with over 5,000 square metres of planted roofs, bioclimatic architecture, geothermic equipment, the biggest replanting program in Europe of 16,000 olive trees, and the latest technology in energy saving measures. Costa Navarino also hosts the Navarino Environmental Observatory, a research station dedicated to the study of the climate change.
Get Active
With the warm Mediterranean sun beating down, it’s easy to just lie back, chill out and relax on the beach. While this may be fun, there are plenty of other things to do, especially if you like to be active and make the most of your holiday.
The crystal blue water of the Ionian sea is perfect for water activities both on and below the surf.
If you’re happier on land, there’s a wide range of indoor and outdoor activites. Try the high-ropes course, archery, bowling, clay shooting, junior tennis or Greece’s first signature golf course, designed by US Masters Champion Bernhard Langer. Bird watching in Gialova Lagoon is an interesting and tranquil way to spend your day, or get the whole family out hiking or on a bike ride. At Costa Navarino there are activities to keep the whole family happy.
Discover
Messinia is an area of huge historical importance, dating back 4,500 years. Greek mythology and culture surround you: Mycenaean palaces, temples, tombs, Byzantine churches and medieval castles are all close by. Navarino Bay itself was the setting for the dramatic Battle of Navarino where in 1827 a British fleet destroyed an Ottoman armada. The commander-in-chief was a British man called Sir Edward Codrington.
The UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ancient Olympia and the Temple of Apollo Epicurius are all within easy reach.
Just take some time out to explore the area around Costa Navarino and you’ll discover pristine coastlines, virgin lagoons, extensive olive groves, waterfalls, endless sandy beaches and the mystical world of the Gialova Lagoon which is home to 270 species of birds, many of which are rare.
Just for you
Going on holiday is exciting and fun, at Costa Navarino the aim is to make it fun for ALL the family. And while parents will enjoy cruising around Sfaktiria island, younger kids can play safe and happy at the Cocoon and older kids can explore the Sand Castle, a specially designed youth hub with exciting activities and overnight-stay options. Here you are also offered a fun learning experience through discovery and creativity, by practicing the martial arts of ancient Sparta, you can unearth secrets as a junior archaeologist and delve into the magical world of Greek mythology. Or why not splash about at the brilliant aqua park? Whatever you choose to do – there is something at Costa Navarino that is just for you.